Plasma Donations from Recovered COVID-19 Patients Needed to Help New Jersey’s Critically Ill

By VITALANT

April 28, 2020 at 11:48 AM

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Credits: Vitalant

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By VITALANT

April 28, 2020 at 11:48 AM

Vitalant – working in conjunction with its hospital partners – has launched a program to treat COVID-19 patients with blood plasma donated by individuals who have recovered from the disease. This blood component, known as “convalescent plasma,” contains antibodies that may provide seriously ill patients an extra boost in fighting the disease.

There currently are neither vaccines nor proven treatments for COVID-19, because the virus is so new. Although trials for a vaccine are underway, it is expected to be months before one is approved. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has identified and approved convalescent plasma treatment as an “emergency investigational new drug.” It is currently the only antibody treatment available to COVID-19 patients and, as such, is a promising new tool.

Vitalant is collecting convalescent plasma – by appointment only – at its locations in Montvale, Paramus, and Parsippany, NJ. Those interested in donating plasma are encouraged to apply through the Vitalant website Vitalant.org/covidfree. Additional details are available by calling 866-CV-PLSMA (866-287-5762).

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“This is an example of the medical and research communities coming together to effect real change during this pandemic,” said Maria De Los Angeles Muñiz, MD, Medical Director at Vitalant’s Montvale, NJ location. “Convalescent plasma is a promising response tool for fighting COVID-19 in patients, and potentially for those working on the front lines.”

Eligibility criteria for convalescent plasma donors are:

Prior diagnosis of COVID-19, documented by a laboratory test

Complete resolution of symptoms for at least 14 days

Meet all other current FDA donor eligibility requirements to donate plasma

Even for those who meet these requirements, additional tests may be required. In some instances, those who have recovered from COVID-19 may be able to donate, even if they did not have an initial laboratory test.

Vitalant, formerly Community Blood Services in Montvale, New Jersey, exists to help people realize their life-transforming potential by offering convenient blood donation opportunities and sharing our expertise in transfusion medicine. Founded in 1943, Vitalant is one of the nation’s oldest and largest nonprofit transfusion medicine organizations. We comprise a network of nearly a dozen community blood centers, each with its own rich history and legacy. Vitalant is an internationally known and respected leader that continues to push the boundaries to advance the experience, practice and application of transfusion medicine. For more information visit www.vitalant.org.

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